During the great recession of 2008 I lost everything. In 2009 was playing golf with my attorney when someone in our foursome introduced me to the concept of legal marijuana. Being an entrepreneur with nothing to do and needing to make a living I jumped on the opportunity.

Tell us about American Cannabis Partners. What inspired the idea and what is your vision for the company?

The vision of American Cannabis Partners (ACP) is to continue to develop the cannabis business that I started with Green Man Cannabis, while also taking advantage of all of the interesting and unique business opportunities that come up in this industry. There are a lot of them.

What strategic partnerships/marketing strategies have you implemented that have attributed to your brand’s success?

We made Green Man Cannabis the best business in the industry. We won four Cannabis Cups – the industry’s most prestigious award for product excellence. I also wrote a book, Big Weed, about my experience in the industry, which was published in April 2015. That has opened a lot of doors in the industry.

What industry trends are you noticing and how do you capitalize on them?

The industry is spreading quickly. More states are legalizing every day, and we’re preparing to enter those markets in the way believe is the best to support this business.

Life Motto?

Live, laugh, love.

American Cannabis Partners’ Motto?

Ours is the best way to grow this business and cultivate community, awareness and acceptance.

Your greatest success in this industry? Most difficult moment-how did you overcome and what did you learn?

The greatest success was getting a bank account. No, really. The most difficult moment was when the seventh bank kicked us out and we realized we truly weren’t going to have banking for a while. We had to learn how to successfully run a business in all cash.

Your advice to an aspiring entrepreneur?

This is the time to get involved in the marijuana industry. There are a lot of opportunities in the industry outside of just growing and selling the plant, including Human Resources, marketing, technology, and much more. Now is the time to get involved in whatever way that is for you. The industry is exploding.

Describe the ideal experience using your product.

Using a Green Man Cannabis product introduces people to really high-quality, medical-grade marijuana. That is something most people haven’t experienced.

How do you motivate your employees?

We really look for people who are excited to be part of the growth of this industry and this company.

One food and drink left on earth, what would you choose?

Tequila and a good edible.

What literature is on your bed stand?

The Book of Life.

Role model - business and personal?

Richard Branson.

Current passion?

Currently I’m passionate about building the Colorado Cannabis Ranch. Like a brewery or winery, it is a “weedery” for legal marijuana. It is scheduled to open in 2016.

Favorite travel destination?

Bali.

What's next for American Cannabis Partners?

Building the Colorado Cannabis Ranch, filming a television show, and working on a product placement project for a Hollywood movie.